Kukla's Korner Hockey

But how does Detroit, which hosts the Predators in their first matchup of the season tonight, do it year after year?

The secret to its success seems to be a mix of luck and longevity. While centering play on a core of key veteran contributors, the Red Wings have drafted a contingent of young talent, which they have injected into their system and painstakingly molded into professionals.

The result is a continual influx of ability that complements the nucleus, easily replaces the departed, and prevents Detroit from the falloff so many other teams experience.